According to Forbes, Manchester United are reportedly eyeing up a potential move for Sevilla star Jules Kounde ahead of the summer transfer window.
Reports back in January suggested that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side are lining up a summer bid for the 4-cap France U21 international, and given Sam Pilger’s latest report, it seems he is still firmly at the top of their shortlist.
Should Man Utd sign Jules Kounde?
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Questions over United’s defence have arisen once again after the Red Devils conceded a late equaliser in added time to draw 3-3 against Everton at Old Trafford.
The report adds that United have been keeping tabs on Kounde as they look to add depth to the centre-back berth.
Upgrade on Victor Lindelof
Harry Maguire is the clear first-choice in the position. However, the club captain does lack a suitable partner for his spot, and Solskjaer is keen to change just that by bringing in cover and competition for a place in his starting XI.
Paul Scholes was not impressed with Victor Lindelof’s latest display after United squandered a lead twice to draw with Everton on Saturday. Lindelof started alongside Maguire in the Premier League clash as United were forced to settle for a point at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils took the lead twice but were pegged back on both occasions, with Scott McTominay thinking he had scored the winner 20 minutes from full-time only for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to dash their hopes in a six-goal thriller.
When asked if Solskjaer’s squad is strong enough to mount a successful title challenge, Scholes said: “I still have question marks against Lindelof, I always will.
“I don’t think he’s quick enough to play alongside Maguire, I don’t think he’s aggressive enough.”
Signing Kounde would be an almost immediate improvement on the Swede. The 22-year-old, who is currently valued at £45m by Transfermarkt, averages 1.4 interceptions per game in comparison to Lindelof’s 1.2, demonstrating a strong sense of positional awareness.
Unlike Lindelof, he is also strong in the air, and is prepared to bring the ball out from the back to put his team on the front foot, as evidenced by his one dribble per 90 in La Liga this season. He also made the headlines after scoring a stunning solo goal against Barcelona, which suggests that he’d offer an alternative threat in attack as well.
If Ed Woodward can bring him to Old Trafford this summer, then the youngster could prove to be a very shrewd addition for Solskjaer’s side.
